Jack Eichel is teaming with Bauer Hockey to buy medical masks for hospitals in Western New York

Buffalo, NY (WGR 550) - Buffalo Sabres forwards Jeff Skinner and Jack Eichel are doing their part to help in the fight against the coronavirus in Western New York.

Skinner announced on his Instagram account on Wednesday that he’s donating $53,000 to the fund started by Terry and Kim Pegula last week.

Skinner said he wanted to help health care workers, as well as FeedMore WNY as the fight against the coronavirus rages on.

The Pegulas have already pledged $1.2 million in COVID-19 relief.

Eichel announced on Twitter that he's teaming with Bauer Hockey to buy 5,000 personal protective equipment (PPE) masks that will be distributed to various hospitals in the area.

"As we continue to do what we can by social distancing, our healthcare heroes continue to fight this virus head on," Eichel said in his video. "I cannot thank them enough for their continued dedication in Western New York and across the entire country.

"Let's continue to do our part as they continue to do theirs. Together, I know we will get through this."

“We're all on the same team in helping our medical professionals get the necessary protective equipment they need to help in the fight against COVID-19,” said Vice President of Global Marketing for Bauer Hockey, Mary-Kay Messier in a statement released by the Sabres. “Nurses, doctors and so many others are risking their own health to save the lives of others. These are the true heroes of coronavirus. Our team was eager to step up and do what we can, just like Jack is stepping up to help his community in Buffalo. We're grateful for this partnership with Jack and the Buffalo Sabres, and we hope others continue to help because we all need to support our families, friends and neighbors right now.”